Imitation Firearms (and Airsoft) Legislation in the United Kingdom

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 10 ก.ย. 2024
  • JOIN the mailing list for exclusive training by ME and SBS Veteran: www.blackbeltb...
    This is a breakdown of the UK Legislation for Imitation Firearms (IF) / Realistic Imitation Firearms (RIF) - commonly referred to as Airsoft.
    #Airsoft
    💌 Become a channel member to access stripes and perks!
    / @blackbeltbarrister
    LAW FAQS
    • Common Law
    CONSUMER LAW PLAYLIST:
    • Consumer Law
    TREE LAW PLAYLIST:
    • Tree Law Miniseries
    ROAD TRAFFIC LAW PLAYLIST:
    • Road Traffic Law
    FAMILY LAW PLAYLIST:
    • Family Law
    IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER:
    I'm a Barrister of England and Wales.
    Videos for educational guidance only, Always seek advice before taking action. Videos on my channel are not legal advice and should not be taken as such. I accept no liability for any reliance placed upon the content of these videos or references, therein.
    #blackbeltbarrister #lawyer #barrister
    Description contains affiliate links; I will occasionally earn commissions from qualifying purchases or leads generated. Description may contain affiliate or sponsored links, for which we may receive commissions or payment.

ความคิดเห็น • 871

  • @zedeeyen30
    @zedeeyen30 ปีที่แล้ว +221

    I work in the videogames industry. 20 years ago or thereabouts we were making a military sim. We hired a firearms consultant. He was travelling to a motion capture studio when he was involved in a road traffic accident. He had 20 replica assault rifles in his boot, which popped open in the crash.
    Caused quite a response from the police, and he spent several hours in custody.

    • @liammeech3702
      @liammeech3702 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      Oh my days... did the game get finished in the end.

    • @generalzucc462
      @generalzucc462 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@liammeech3702 I want to know this too! op needs to update what the game is/was called.

    • @thebasedspectre3048
      @thebasedspectre3048 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      That's the story folks stop bugging him

    • @zedeeyen30
      @zedeeyen30 ปีที่แล้ว +32

      Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising 👍

    • @thebasedspectre3048
      @thebasedspectre3048 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@zedeeyen30 holy shit I remember that game

  • @jamesdowling9759
    @jamesdowling9759 ปีที่แล้ว +89

    I love Airsoft. I’ve been playing for 6 years. I got my UKARA number few years ago to buy RIFS from reputable retailers. If anyone hasn’t tried it, I encourage you to do so. It’s great fun.

    • @FamilyFriendlyBushcraft
      @FamilyFriendlyBushcraft ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Had a go once. It was a good crack. Rounds came in I dash, down, crawled to have some guy look at me bemused and say “what the f**k are you doing “ ……what can I say 😅

    • @killerbye1985
      @killerbye1985 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I went to my first game and rented an airsoft rifle. After that game I ordered my first one (because rentals suck) and I am slowly building up my kit. My new spring arrived while I was watching this video in fact. Very addictive and its a great day out.

    • @deeeeeeeench1209
      @deeeeeeeench1209 ปีที่แล้ว

      Rather crap in my hands and clap why would I want to shoot plastic balls and have to pay for the right to do so it's pathetic and you people paying to play are part of the problem get a back bone.

    • @hpairsoft5686
      @hpairsoft5686 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Work in a UK airsoft retailer and have been playing for 16 years. ✌️

    • @dean_83
      @dean_83 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      20 years for me dude!, and i still have my very first RIF which was a TM M4A1 and its still going strong!

  • @flotinaway7
    @flotinaway7 ปีที่แล้ว +49

    I used to love my Sekiden gun with the gold coloured pellets or dried peas..it was extremely realistic for a 8 year old back in the 60's🙂

    • @russellv8
      @russellv8 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I remember those I and my six mates had them one summer holiday and we had two teams trying to get the others base, we cleared out our local animal feed shop of al of his dried peas, our street was covered in them, totally the fore runner to modern day paint ball.. happy days with our street games, run outs, knock down ginger, and my favourite kinghy 😊

    • @63mckenzie
      @63mckenzie ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Yip. As a kid, I had a replica rifle that fired plastic bullets. My parents bought me a knife ( to use in the woods) and the shops had sweets that resembled cigarettes! Ah, the good old days.

    • @DanielDare100
      @DanielDare100 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Loads of us had a Sekiden!!! One local shop in Canning Town, Wally Popes sold all sorts of seeds and we found pigeon maples were a great and much cheaper substitute for the Sekiden ammo!!
      Lot of fat pigeons in Canning Town during that period!!!!!

    • @hachimanjiro
      @hachimanjiro ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Brings back memories! We all had Sekiden guns they were great!

    • @DanielDare100
      @DanielDare100 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Anyone remember the "Gat" .177 pistol???? You were a hero if you had one of those!!!!!
      We used to have gun fights back in the 60s with air rifles, Gats, and a Webley Premier (mine!)
      How no one lost an eye or was seriously hurt is a miracle!!!!

  • @terryhedger3381
    @terryhedger3381 ปีที่แล้ว +42

    It`s always bothered me, if someone painted a real firearm a bright colour, and then drew that firearm on an armed police/security officer, surely that officer would hesitate??

    • @fredbloggs5902
      @fredbloggs5902 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sure, you’d be dead in 1/5th of a second instead of 1/10th.

    • @lukebyrne141
      @lukebyrne141 ปีที่แล้ว

      Unlikely, if someone is foolish enough to brandish anything that looks like it could be a viable firearm at an AFO, they are going to get shot and rightly so.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Criminals in the 'states have been known to paint their firearms to look like toys. And here in the UK people engaging in some types of competitive shooting use brightly coloured rifles as it makes team membership obvious to spectators.
      But according to the law you'd be scared if someone had or threatened you with a dark coloured gun but not if it were, say bright blue. 🤦

    • @bobbyrayofthefamilysmith24
      @bobbyrayofthefamilysmith24 ปีที่แล้ว

      Such cool idea

    • @wreython
      @wreython ปีที่แล้ว +3

      ​@Ubiquitous Ubiquitous Errrrr - no they don't.

  • @cpuuk
    @cpuuk ปีที่แล้ว +134

    Firearms laws in this country are such that a balloon on stick is almost a deadly weapon.

    • @keithnorman3519
      @keithnorman3519 ปีที่แล้ว +34

      Whatever you do don’t sharpen the stick as you will be charged for having an intercontinental ballistic stick.

    • @1988dgs
      @1988dgs ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Many balloons around here have more than sticks

    • @vanpallandt5799
      @vanpallandt5799 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Shotguns are still legal

    • @chrismccartney8668
      @chrismccartney8668 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      But only for Law Abiding Citizen Crooks can have Uziis or Kalashnikovs because it is their culture..

    • @vanpallandt5799
      @vanpallandt5799 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@chrismccartney8668 actually more like MAC-10s. Though tbh the fact that criminals hire weapons from armourers shows the different dynamic in UK

  • @johnbowkett80
    @johnbowkett80 ปีที่แล้ว +79

    We have immitation politicians ! 😠🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

    • @philipslighting8240
      @philipslighting8240 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Very good made me laugh.......🧐

    • @kingmac8519
      @kingmac8519 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Here here 💯🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🇮🇪🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
      we know how you feel dw 😂

    • @vincemoran587
      @vincemoran587 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Diss iz wun dat wil make da paytriutz offended and cry 😭🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

  • @contessa.adella
    @contessa.adella ปีที่แล้ว +123

    British Law in a nutshell: “It is an offence to [insert: any activity or recreation you can think of]”
    I wish that was just a sarcasm, but sadly it is rapidly becoming real.

    • @armchairgeneralissimo
      @armchairgeneralissimo ปีที่แล้ว

      British publics mentality: I don't partake in [insert activity] so it should be banned!

    • @mrsmith9079
      @mrsmith9079 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Becoming real? It's been here for a long time already.

    • @fus149hammer5
      @fus149hammer5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Who says Oliver Cromwells puritans are dead?

    • @watchonjar
      @watchonjar ปีที่แล้ว

      ur 100% right if ur young and dont have kids you really have to get out of the country, its going to shit

    • @bigrack6668
      @bigrack6668 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Yes, the VCRA - how to take a simple, easily understood and harmless hobby, wrap it up in incomprehensible laws which pretty much hobble it for most people even though existing legislation covers any potential for wrong-doing, stand back and say "yes, we did something about a problem that didn't exist". Industry, personal freedoms and rights of the already law-abiding negatively impacted, check. Good old blighty.

  • @captainhowdy9845
    @captainhowdy9845 ปีที่แล้ว +87

    As for those gentlemen at the end promising to 'push me to my limits' and 'recognise danger', I recognise danger in one of those fine chaps attempting to push me to my limits. My limits are reached by drinking tea somewhere comfortable, thanks very much 🤣

  • @SSS-tm7in
    @SSS-tm7in ปีที่แล้ว +66

    Looking forward to this series, I have been an SGC and FAC holder for many years and am about to become an RFD. Firearms legislation in this country is some of the strictest in the world.

    • @Interdiction
      @Interdiction ปีที่แล้ว

      Correction the Firearms legislation in the UK is MORONIC and was brought in as a knee jerk reaction , Criminals can get any handgun from Europe at any time , Decent citizens are punished

    • @NeilCWCampbell
      @NeilCWCampbell ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Our firearms law highly indirectly discriminatory like our law and services

    • @manofkentcatapultsgunsando5069
      @manofkentcatapultsgunsando5069 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      ​@@NeilCWCampbell Absolutely

    • @SSS-tm7in
      @SSS-tm7in ปีที่แล้ว

      @@NeilCWCampbell would you like to elaborate?

    • @NeilCWCampbell
      @NeilCWCampbell ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@SSS-tm7in I agree it good to remove those who just want a gun for a guns sake..
      But I've known people who had licence for years.. received neuro-atypical diagnosis and lost license... And people limited from sport due to lack of homeownership... And as entry is often through cadets or service (or kids thereof) it limits access with regards to disability

  • @TheWtfnonamez
    @TheWtfnonamez ปีที่แล้ว +47

    The laws in the UK are getting ridiculous now.
    Getting a criminal conviction for firearms is as easy as repainting your toy rifle without consulting a solicitor. Kids can make a blowpipe to use in the woods and get an offensive weapons conviction for that. I almost found myself guilty of a firearms offence when I was just about to bring my air gun to Scotland. Up here its classified as a firearm and I would have been staring down a 5 year prison term. Add to this, the ridiculous way that knife law is enforced, and frankly the burden of legal expertise required to stay legal is phenomenal.
    Consider the fact that I actually do my best to stay up to date with all this stuff ... and I nevertheless could have got prison time for just taking an airgun across the border at Gretna Green.

    • @luxx1346
      @luxx1346 ปีที่แล้ว +29

      They've been ridiculous for ages. Self defense law in general is completely broken.

    • @EnglishDrifts69GTxRED
      @EnglishDrifts69GTxRED ปีที่แล้ว +1

      So just learn the countries laws and if you dont know ring 101 for advice. It seriously aint hard. I have a real shotgun license and if im ever on the move with it I contact 101 to let them know just incase I crash or anything where it would be made visible so they dont waste alot of resources on armed cops

    • @TheWtfnonamez
      @TheWtfnonamez ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@EnglishDrifts69GTxRED Thats basically the point mate. Its so complicated over here that "learning the laws" is a full time job, and peripheral items that you dont realise are legislated routinely slip into new legislation, rendering perfectly innocent people guilty.
      I keep up to date with the UK regs and I have frequently almost ended up on the wrong side of the law. Over the last decade I've probably thrown out about ten items that I bought and owned legally, that crept into legislation and were banned.
      Many people will unwittingly own things that are now illegal.
      I doubt most people realise that any form of blowpipe, any knife with a spring assist, or ninjutsu climbing equipment are all now offensive weapons.

    • @harrier331
      @harrier331 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@EnglishDrifts69GTxRED That is nonsense, it is not an easy task and phoning 101 is not an answer as they don't know the full extent of the law themselves. For god sake, I even called my local firearms licencing department a while back to try and clear something up. I was on the phone for half an hour over one question as the officer I was talking to didn't even know about the law that I was speaking of existed. He had to look it up, even then he still wouldn't commit...

    • @HorusHerotic
      @HorusHerotic ปีที่แล้ว +8

      You're too right. Our society is catered to the lowest common denominator. The reasons they give for the laws increasing safety are tripe. The knife one is the best example. Banning locking blades make them less safe for the 99.999% of legal users and do nothing to stifle knife crime.

  • @vikingraider1961
    @vikingraider1961 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    GF asked me "exactly how many weapons do you actually need?" - I was rescued by my mate... "One more than you have!" - got a cupboard full of RIFs now! Ho hum. Trouble is, all the sites near me have closed down - so they're all gathering dust (plus I'm probably getting too old now anyway).

    • @jinksomiabodyart3189
      @jinksomiabodyart3189 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You are not too old. Do it if its enjoyable.

    • @StraightOuttaUrbex
      @StraightOuttaUrbex ปีที่แล้ว +2

      i was into airsoft before the scamdamenic kicked in lost interest after 2nd "lockdown" which i ignored both anyway and still played it when i could im getting back into again before the sport dies off the air soft shop near me has a indoor play zone and there are quite a few scattered in essex and norfolk

    • @ianmills9266
      @ianmills9266 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Do you enjoy it? If so you're not too old

    • @StraightOuttaUrbex
      @StraightOuttaUrbex ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ianmills9266 air soft hell yea its great fun

  • @Equiluxe1
    @Equiluxe1 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    You can buy an AK47 in the US in bright pink.

  • @manofkentcatapultsgunsando5069
    @manofkentcatapultsgunsando5069 ปีที่แล้ว +43

    The whole Firearms licencing system in the UK is broken and full of contradictions, unfortunately.......

    • @FlyboyHelosim
      @FlyboyHelosim ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yep, and even many gun shops don't know about the laws on these kind of guns... or are willing to turn a blind eye if it means they're going to make a sale.

  • @Trevor_Austin
    @Trevor_Austin ปีที่แล้ว +6

    What is it with our politicians? I think we are one of the few countries on Earth where firearms ownership is so fraught. But we can rest easy. We are in the likes of countries like Brunei, Fiji, Guinea-Bisseau, Myanmar (except for Chin people), Palau, Timor-Leste and of course the Vatican City / Holy See. Now only a compete cynic would ask why the majority of the 6,000 reported firearms offences every year involve handguns, prohibited in the UK shortly after the Dunblane shootings. Since the near enough total ban on firearms in the UK we’ve never had to many shootings and offences. Now the legislators are getting concerned about imitation firearms. I wonder when they will get the message that we are actually more likely to be shot now than ever before? Don’t forget, we also have a stupid population. One where far too many would wish to pass laws making it illegal to process prohibited firearms.

    • @stellajayne
      @stellajayne ปีที่แล้ว

      Only a total moron would make it easier for the British public to access firearms. Is that what you are suggesting?

  • @QuentinStephens
    @QuentinStephens ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I tried airsoft back in the 90s with some former military people and it was made very clear that the police would take the sighting of an airsoft gun by them or a member of the public as the sighting of a real gun and Bad Things would follow.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Table leg in a bag. Unsubstantiated 'suspicion' of a gun in the car. Both of these things have been successfully used as reasons to shoot people dead.
      And I hope you never go blind; one elderly blind man who also had hearing difficulties was tazered a few years ago by armed police because he had a weapon (a white stick).

    • @fafhrd0023
      @fafhrd0023 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Police try to get it right. Many years ago I was involved in an incident after an argument in a pub where it was reported we had a shotgun. After a friendly chat through a window with a local constable he came in and had a look around at our invitation. He then cancelled the response team .. after a very confused call to base, when he reported that we were very heavily armed but had no firearms. He did have trouble getting in to the living room due to the piles of swords/axes/spears/polearms in the hall. Weapons... yes tonnes, Firearms... no, far too modern.

    • @bobbyrayofthefamilysmith24
      @bobbyrayofthefamilysmith24 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@fafhrd0023 they don't even try mate police these days just revenue collecting and political agenda enforcement.

    • @StraightOuttaUrbex
      @StraightOuttaUrbex ปีที่แล้ว

      yes they do if you have a airsoft gun on you and not in a case if you do that its very stupid a armed response unit would show up rather sharpish its a very stupid idea not to have a gun case anyone who does that is jjust doing it because they are a moron

    • @fus149hammer5
      @fus149hammer5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      ​@@loc4725 You've just given two perfect examples of why the common on the beat plod should never be allowed anywhere near anything that goes bang. And that includes Christmas crackers!

  • @thomascarroll9556
    @thomascarroll9556 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Glad you covered this.

  • @davidmwood560
    @davidmwood560 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have been a competition pistol shooter from the age of 16. The handgun ban of 1996 put paid to my sport (at which I was very successful) and also contravened the Law in every respect. As a lawyer, I have no doubt that you should be aware of this. I now shoot black powder and, for competitive purposes, Co2 at .177, .22, and .50 calibres. In the case of .50 calibre, the projectiles used are hard rubber ball, paintball marker and aluminum ball on a range. The Law does not require these weapons to be licenced or locked in a cabinet (although mine are - better safe than sorry). The law in respect of firearms in the UK goes against the provisions made under Magna-Carta, the 1688/9 Royal Constitution and the relevant Act of 1700; but of course, current government sees fit to ignore many Ancient Royal Decrees which very clearly establish the Right of The Common Man. The restrictions surrounding "airsoft" baffle me. Why a non-lethal piece of weaponry designed solely for indoor range use should be so restricted is a mystery; particularly when Co2 in skilled hands can so obviously be lethal. It is what it is I suppose.

  • @bellshooter
    @bellshooter ปีที่แล้ว +7

    As has been pointed out below, the disconnect between Airsoft, Paintball Markers, and Air Weapons is absolutely stupid. I have RIF's from previous airsoft hobby. I also have a number of air weapons from current air rifle and pistol range use. They are far more powerful than airsoft and just as realistic. So just by increasing the power of a RIF above the required limit turns it into an air weapon? But as there is no lower power definition for air weapons is that even needed? It's a real mess.

  • @lolzlolz102
    @lolzlolz102 ปีที่แล้ว +37

    It’s crazy to me that there are so many restrictions for airsoft..but mag fed paintball, and .177 or 4.5 pellet/BB there is much less restrictions.

    • @michaeldunham3385
      @michaeldunham3385 ปีที่แล้ว

      Actually I guess depends when it comes to Air-weapons because they are a lot more tightly controlled here now

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      ​@@michaeldunham3385 Only in SNP-land. In the rest of the UK I can purchase a very realistic airgun but can't purchase *the exact same frame* if it shot the far safer, lower power Airsoft BB's. 🤦

    • @harrier331
      @harrier331 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@loc4725 That is due to the strange fact that in law an air rifle that is not considered to be "especially dangerous" IE: sub 12 ftlb is legally a real firearm but with a legal exemption which allows ownership without a licence, this means that it cannot legally be a realistic immitation as it is legally a true firearm.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@harrier331 Yes, it's not a "realistic imitation firearm" but as all airguns are considered firearms it *is* a firearm.
      So the situation is an essentially harmless Airsoft gun is banned but the exact same design but as a much more powerful airgun is perfectally legal. 🤦

    • @harrier331
      @harrier331 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@loc4725 Yes, exactly.

  • @mcdon2401
    @mcdon2401 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Airsoft is a cracking way to spend your free time. Loads of fun, gets the blood pumping, and introduces you to a load of great people.
    It will also become the rabbit hole down which you will always want to spend more money on new kit 🤣

    • @jamesdowling9759
      @jamesdowling9759 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I’d hate to think how much I’ve spent on it 😂

    • @Ellie-mc9wb
      @Ellie-mc9wb ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Real men and women are into paint-ball 🤕 wimps play air-soft (with emphasis on the "soft" ) 🐱

    • @mcdon2401
      @mcdon2401 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@jamesdowling9759 my eternal fear was if I ever died, and my other half (now ex) sold all my kit for what I told her I'd paid for it...

    • @jamesdowling9759
      @jamesdowling9759 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Ellie-mc9wb 😂😂 to be fair I’ve never tried paintball.

    • @jamesdowling9759
      @jamesdowling9759 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mcdon2401 😂😂😂

  • @perdix99
    @perdix99 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I think the law is somewhat muddled; I hold the Home Office Authority to Possess Prohibited Weapons, commonly referred to as a Section 5 Licence, for theatrical use - eg machine guns but I only have a 'defence in law' to possess a rubber Glock.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว

      Law working as intended.

    • @perdix99
      @perdix99 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@loc4725 If only it was working.....

    • @TheAlexagius
      @TheAlexagius 24 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@perdix99 The Europeans able to own most of those section 5 weapons are no doubt laughing at this island, with their lower murder rates and their guns.

  • @MervynPartin
    @MervynPartin ปีที่แล้ว +31

    A major problem with all the firearms legislation is that it only stops honest people from having guns. Very few of the fatal shootings that seem to be so frequent in the News are carried out with legally held firearms. Criminals are dishonest by definition and carry on regardless and seem to have no difficulty in obtaining guns.
    I used to be a FAC holder and really enjoyed long range rifle target shooting- good exercise and fresh air. I and many others also enjoyed pistol shooting, but that part of our sport was taken from us by ill-thought legislation. Has Britain become safer under the ever increasing restrictions to our liberty? I think not.

    • @MDM1992
      @MDM1992 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'd argue it's worse, the gangs of kids who run around stabbing each other would've thought twice before all the firearm and knife bans, they knew the person would have at least a pocket knife of their own if not a gun, now they know any household or person they target is highly unlikely to be able to defend against their illegal firearms of which there are 10's of thousands in the country and more incoming daily. It was never about safety, it was about removing our only barrier between corrupt politicians taking our rights away and us, now we don't have free speech, will get jail time for self defence more often than not, and rapists, murderers and paedophiles walk free because it costs money to jail them, far more lucrative to put all time and resources into throwing fixed penalty notices around like fucking confetti, so they do that instead of protect the public as they were intended. So they take our firearms, knives, and right to self defence, then stop bothering to turn up to violent crime calls and burglaries etc etc.. it's time we stripped them of their powers, burned every bit of legislation thats been brought in recently (maybe 50 years worth lol) and stop treating the public as toddlers who can't be trusted to behave and need to be kept away from certain items.. certain places.. even certain words and thoughts these days.. millions of us should've been lining the streets out for blood a long time ago, yet we continue to let them take take take, and nobody I speak to is at all satisfied, they all say they want change, so let's get up and force change, history has long since proven they won't stop taking until we stop them by force, violently if necessary as is almost always the case.

    • @Trebor74
      @Trebor74 ปีที่แล้ว

      if honest people don't have guns it's harder for the criminals to steal them. They need to be smuggled in which makes them prohibitively expensive

    • @BlokeOnAMotorbike
      @BlokeOnAMotorbike ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Hey, Mervyn, Thomas Watt Hamilton walked through Dunblane with four handguns he held LEGALLY on his own firearms certificate.

    • @MervynPartin
      @MervynPartin ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@BlokeOnAMotorbike If I remember correctly, if due diligence had been observed, then he would have been denied a FAC. Nevertheless, I did qualify my comment by saying "very few".

    • @naedanger123
      @naedanger123 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@BlokeOnAMotorbikeYou mean those handguns he legally should have had stripped from him well in advance of Dunblane? That was a policing failure, not a legislation one.

  • @phlogistician
    @phlogistician ปีที่แล้ว +8

    So I have my first NSRA instructors ticket to teach shooting air rifles. I own several air rifles and air pistols of course, but the law here is a bit complicated. I have an Umarex HDR 50 cal paintball revolver, which I can legally own because it's a paintball pistol, and below the 6 ft.lbs power limit. I also have it's little brother, the Umarex Tornado in .177 (4.5mm bb), but I can't own the lowest powered 6mm Airsoft version without UKARA membership (or other valid defense) because it's an Airsoft pistol. Even though they all look pretty much the same, and do the same thing. Air Pistol replicas can be bought by anyone over 18, no membership of any club required. The VCRA wasn't very well thought out, people wanting to brandish realistic looking guns will just buy the air pistol version, and while these have to be face to face sales, it's not going to stop anyone. I guess at least air softers can mail order if they supply their UKARA ID, so it has a little value?

    • @harrier331
      @harrier331 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      "Umarex HDR 50 cal paintball revolver"
      I wouldn't want to own one of those, they are just asking for an offensive weapon conviction by virtue of the name alone.

    • @phlogistician
      @phlogistician ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@harrier331 It takes more than a name to make something an offensive weapon, it has to be used as one. The branding is 'T4E' the T stands for 'Train' so the branding isn't advocating anything other than training. It's no more offensive than a Mil Sim airsoft.

    • @harrier331
      @harrier331 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@phlogistician I disagree, the name is an outright implication of potential intention. If it were to be siezed for any reason (as the police have been known to do with anything remotely related to firearms whether that is warrented or not) then the CPS would choose whether or not to attempt for a conviction based upon the posession of an offensive weapon. A weapon can be considered to be offensive due to it's percieved intent, not necessarily only based upon action. As the preparation for self defence is outrightt prohibited then owning an item which is specifically named for that act is highly likely to cause problems.
      As an example, if you own a live obsolete calibre firearm, you do not need a firearms licence if it is being kept as an ornament/curiosity only, if you however also own blanks that could theoretically be used in that firearm (even if you had no intention of using them) it is no longer necessarily only being kept as an ornament/curiosity in the eyes of the law as it could be inferred as having an intent to be used. In this situation it is highly likely that the CPS would try a conviction based upon the ownership of an unlicenced firearm.
      Now, you can choose to take the risk but there is a risk, this is the same kind of grey area as yet to be tested in court that the airbow happens to be in.
      You may get lucky, you may not.

    • @phlogistician
      @phlogistician ปีที่แล้ว

      @@harrier331 I have the box in front of me. It makes no mention of defence or offence, just training. You're barking up the wrong tree here, I bought mine from Modern Combat Sports, who supply paintball equipment, they do not supply things to harm people with. Someone that intends to do harm is more likely to buy a crossbow, and as far as I know, nobody has ever been prosecuted just for owning one, I think you are going far too deep down the rabbit hole here.

    • @harrier331
      @harrier331 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@phlogistician Interesting that you think that given that it is literally in the name”HDR”. Home Defence Revolver. It is marketed as such and is designed in a way to enable that use case.

  • @neilremy8861
    @neilremy8861 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    for all the non educated people who hate firearms and want them banned they can't argue that a firearm is an inanimate object and won't hurt anyone unless a Person with intent picks it up to use as such most owners are some of the most responsible people out there

    • @ukpracticalshootingamateur
      @ukpracticalshootingamateur ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Its not the gun thats dangerous, its the person using it, (FAC holders are vetted & trained in proper use)....and we are referring to criminals ;-)

    • @neilremy8861
      @neilremy8861 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      so very true that

  • @fredbloggs5902
    @fredbloggs5902 ปีที่แล้ว +43

    Suggestion: If you’re doing a series on firearms, a video covering the case of Philip Luty could be interesting.

    • @markdearness
      @markdearness ปีที่แล้ว

      Hoodat?

    • @fredbloggs5902
      @fredbloggs5902 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@markdearness I’m not your GoogleBitch.

    • @xne1592
      @xne1592 ปีที่แล้ว

      Definitely....

    • @xne1592
      @xne1592 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      ​@@markdearness Google has all the info....

    • @markdearness
      @markdearness ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@xne1592 down the rabbit hole i goes 🐇

  • @stephenjdutton
    @stephenjdutton ปีที่แล้ว +22

    I was once talking to someone about air soft guns and he mentioned having a basic airsoft pistol that he had painted black. In response I told him "Congratulations, it was worth about £20, now it's worth about five years."

    • @thepvporg
      @thepvporg ปีที่แล้ว

      Your response should have been, congratulations, you just committed an offence under the legislation...

    • @StraightOuttaUrbex
      @StraightOuttaUrbex ปีที่แล้ว +4

      that is actually wrong because air soft guns cant be custom painted there is a market for them to be custom painted and modded with extras or different handles extra its not illegal to paint a air soft gun for use at a game

    • @stephenjdutton
      @stephenjdutton ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@StraightOuttaUrbex So you didn't watch the video then? About the 7:15 mark.

    • @LaZoucheCustomshop
      @LaZoucheCustomshop ปีที่แล้ว

      ​​​@@stephenjdutton I have been using airsoft weapons for the past 21years and so long as you don't weild it in a public place other than a specified airsoft site, have played at a site via hiring a weapon for 3 event days in 2 months thus gaining a UKARA registration you can then purchase an airsoft weapon so long as you are over 18years of age, you can paint it any colour you wish after the age of 18 so long as you don't take it out in public and only use it at specified sites. You can modify it by adding a full metal body to it and other parts to make it look more real. No airsoft weapon can fire real bullets as it would be far more dangerous for the user.
      I still own a vast arsenal of various full metal and ABS plastic replicas which truly do look real but they are stored out of sight, are carried to game events in fully covered bags and are never taken out into public places unless used for display purposes.
      It's basically using commonsense but it does appear that it's use is on the decline these days.
      Hope that helps ;-)

    • @matthewkeith8605
      @matthewkeith8605 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@stephenjdutton If you have a UKARA number (or some other legal defence) then you can repaint your airsoft "gun" or just buy one in black (or whatever colour the "real steel" model is).

  • @davekennedy6315
    @davekennedy6315 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    These Airsoft games look like incredible fun! I've done paintball and absolutely LOVED every moment but I love the idea of Airsofts longer possible ranges, ultra realistic weapons, even having the opportunity of back up weapons, sniper rifles and camo gear, helmets and accessories. Proper hardcore, grown ups version of the war games my friends and I played when we were little (obviously I'm not counting the advertised proper training experiences in this)

    • @lyddonmike
      @lyddonmike ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Get a bunch of mates together, and give it a go, it is such good fun. I played paintball for years and loved it, but switched to airsoft about 5 years ago. I wish I'd switched earlier. The games are so much more immersive and involved, usually over a much larger area and longer games than paintball. You can play so much more tactically, rather than just a 15 minute headless chicken rush about.
      Plus, the ammo is a fraction of the cost, and you don't get covered in all that horrible slimy paintball gloop lol.

  • @FamilyFriendlyBushcraft
    @FamilyFriendlyBushcraft ปีที่แล้ว +15

    As an FAC and SGC holder I find out firearms legislation fairly ludicrous and ineffective. The fact that as an FAC holder I would still need a UCARA number to buy a RIF but could possess and replica, deactivated or blank firer without either.
    Some blank firers can be adapted for live use (mechanically rather than legally) which is something known to occur in the criminal fraternity.
    The only thing our current legislation succeeds in doing is to ensure that the majority of firearms used in criminal activity are illegally held or modified in the first place.
    With glaring exceptions such as Hungerford, Dunblane and Plymouth more recently, I won’t name the perpetrators so as not to give them the option of publicity, being failings of the local police forces in my view. There are very few crimes committed by actual firearms owners in the UK most of whom are actually more competent than many armed officers. See your recent video.
    Antiques are another story which again has historically been abused by the ne’er do wells.

    • @rocky76dude7
      @rocky76dude7 ปีที่แล้ว

      You wait until they get the men hating leftist women in the police and redundant soldiers in 25 .You will probably loose your certificates in the next few years .

    • @kirtswindon6072
      @kirtswindon6072 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Not to mention you could just go to any gun shop and buy an M4 or Glock replica that operates identically as an aisoft except in 4.5mm/1.77/2.2 and more powerful with just a drivers license/passport or neither if they don't keep a register!

  • @killakanzgaming
    @killakanzgaming ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Back when I was into airsoft, one day I traveled by train to an airsoft weekender event on the other side of the UK. I was going to be on the train for a number of hours and had my own (not brightly coloured) guns with me packed away in a nondescript bag, so when I arrived at the station before getting on the train I went into the BTP office, showed them my UKARA license and informed them that I'll be on the train with imitation firearms.
    The officers at the desk were actually really chill with it, and were more interested in posing for photos with my guns. They informed the staff of the train and I was able to get to the event with no worries or dramas. Same thing on the way home. Going by train was actually the most chill I've ever felt moving my guns through public space...

    • @bigrack6668
      @bigrack6668 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You may as well have shown them your primary school swimming certificates and arm floats, you're doing nothing illegal, it's nothing to do with them, none of their business, and just invites trouble. No reason whatsoever they needed to know anything about it and could just as easily have ended up with some over-zealous rail employee barring your use of the service, or unwarranted Police involvement.

    • @killakanzgaming
      @killakanzgaming ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@bigrack6668 No, dude, it's your attitude that invites trouble. Anything could happen while you're on a train. One person overhears you saying the wrong thing, or happens to see a gun when you're rummaging through a bag, or any other accident... one call to the police and suddenly it's very much their business. You're advocating to keep it a surprise for them if the unforseeable happens, that's very very stupid.

    • @bigrack6668
      @bigrack6668 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@killakanzgaming Perhaps if you're carrying something that could be perceived as a bit of a sensitive item, then you should learn to keep your bags and mouth shut? Issues that are very easily avoided by applying a bit of common sense. Would you inform the driver if taking a bus? Would you inform the highways agency if transporting by car? Legislation is retarded enough around perfectly legal firearms activities, let alone these toys, why make up your own unnecessary burdens? My "attitude" is to mind my own business, expect others and law enforcement to mind their own as well, and take personally responsibility for what I do. YOUR attitude merely assists the nanny state.

  • @elusive62
    @elusive62 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I recently applied for my shotgun license and sadly was rejected due to medical history, either way I respect there decision but I do wish I was granted, however if anybody else has been rejected I just want to give a positive note to you all, the license is just to store and own, you can always just pay the extra and enjoy the shooting experience with places that offer the service, or buy a PreCharged Pneumatic "air rifle" and enjoy honing your long range skill. If you want to experience firing a real shell that houses the gun powder then you can freely buy a blank firing pistol which requires no license and offers the real kick back from shooting the blank.
    The part that annoys me is the fact that airsoft guns are more restricted than airgun shooting and blank firing guns.
    I am actually glad BBB talked about this and it has been a long time coming to hear it.
    I also want to add for the people rejected the license, give it a few years, and re-apply and best of luck.

    • @elusive62
      @elusive62 ปีที่แล้ว

      Just another, another note, i would recommend BASC insurance, or if you can not afford that, BASA is also good.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ​@@elusive62 BASC is only really there for game keepers & large estates. They have a bit of a reputation for stabbing everyone else in the back.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว

      @William Tell That tends to be the problem and not just in shooting. Although much of the public is unaware of the law and would actually support the kind of recreational and competitive range shooting that goes on the message just isn't getting out, and that's just down to apathy, pure and simple. Just look at the incredibly lackluster response to the lead ban consultation, absolutely shocking.
      But I think it's the same in most places. I also quite enjoy flying traditional model aircraft but thanks to apathy in that hobby kids are effectively banned (have to be 18+ now) and there is in effect a tax on flying with the money largely going to the company which runs the scheme and who's name the CAA won't reveal. But people just lie down and take it.

  • @markdearness
    @markdearness ปีที่แล้ว +7

    RIF and Airsoft covered, what about Airguns ie pellet/sbb firing , co2,pcp or spring? As I understand it these do not require two tone or a ucara defence. They are close to original firearm designs in all except fuel and delivery .

    • @hamshackleton
      @hamshackleton ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I don't know about joules - but - unless rules have changed in the last couple of years, spring, pump-up, or pre-charged (co2 cartridge or compressed air cylinder) pistols firing lead pellets must not exceed 6 foot/pounds muzzle energy, or for rifles - 12 foot/pounds. The actual muzzle velocity varies wih the bore - ie 177, 22, etc. (The bigger, the slower).

    • @markdearness
      @markdearness ปีที่แล้ว

      @@hamshackleton i think its under 7J for uk

    • @ambivalentonion2620
      @ambivalentonion2620 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      because they are legally firearms that just aren't subject to license it's the reason why you can't get full auto air weapons

    • @brolohalflemming7042
      @brolohalflemming7042 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Covers that around the 11min mark, ie defined by muzzle energy and projectile type. I think a lot of it is common sense, especially with RIF. I used to legally own a Sig P228 and saw one in a shop. I'm probably not an 'expert' as the law would define it, but obviously familiar with a real one. So it required the close inspection to spot the differences between the RIF and mine. At first glance, it looked real. If it was being pointed at someone unfamiliar with firearms, it would look real. And if it was being pointed at a police officer, it would look real. One of the differences I noticed was the muzzle was different, but you could only really see that if it was being pointed right at you.
      Then if the officer fired with their real firearm, the press would no doubt run headlines about person with a toy/fake firearm being shot by police, and the police should not have fired.

    • @markdearness
      @markdearness ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ambivalentonion2620 i cant help but think it would have been useful to include them in the distinctions

  • @davidrobertson5700
    @davidrobertson5700 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    So my bright orange mkVII Bren gun is perfectly fine as it's the same colour as the tango man

  • @PINACI
    @PINACI ปีที่แล้ว +28

    For most airsoft players, the most simple way to qualify for exemption and be able to legally purchase a single tone imitation replica firearm is to become registered with an airsoft site and then after a few months of attending a specific amount of times you will be places on a register that will be checked when purchasing online or in store.
    Please go on to explain the legislation regarding changing the colour of a two tone replica firearm to look like a realistic firearm so that it becomes a realistic imitation firearm because there are many people who think they can purchase two tone firearms and just re-paint them.

    • @barrieshepherd7694
      @barrieshepherd7694 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Did you watch the video? BBB said clearly painting a two tone replica to make it look realistic was a no-no and rightly so.

    • @PINACI
      @PINACI ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@barrieshepherd7694 Did you not read my comment? I clearly asked for him to explain the legislation behind it.

    • @barrieshepherd7694
      @barrieshepherd7694 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@PINACI In video if you watch from about 6:53 BBB says Section 36 (of the Act he was discussing), covers painting at around 7:11 in the video. I thought that would cover your question about ".....many people who think they can purchase two tone firearms and just re-paint them."

    • @PINACI
      @PINACI ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@barrieshepherd7694 He did indeed mention section 36 of the violent crime reduction act 2006. My apologies, I must have missed it.

    • @StraightOuttaUrbex
      @StraightOuttaUrbex ปีที่แล้ว

      you have to play 3 games in 3 months then you get the ukara number but you dont have to buy a two tone i didnt my first rif was full black my side arm was a glock but it had a cool camo paint on it

  • @Urbanspacefox
    @Urbanspacefox ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Yup… in order to get a RIF for IPSC/UKPSA Action Air I had to send the dealer (a) my UKSPA membership card, (b) a letter from my club confirming my membership and (c) a copy of the clubs insurance docket verifying they were covered for use of airsoft guns…
    I’m hindsight might have been easier to just get the 2-tone.

  • @joeoria4497
    @joeoria4497 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    all the kids around our way had spud guns but that was 60 odd years ago

    • @mcdon2401
      @mcdon2401 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I remember when some comics used to give them away, taped to the front page 😁
      Changed days 😕

    • @joeoria4497
      @joeoria4497 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@mcdon2401 changed for the worst.
      long hot summers playing or just watching the world go by.no pressure and no worries
      except plod booking you for no light on your bicycle or scrumping

  • @A-Gaming-Memory
    @A-Gaming-Memory ปีที่แล้ว +5

    i tried buying an M92 Air-soft gun but i needed a license but I could buy a .177 Metal BB CO2 M92 with Zero problems last year! Why could i buy a metal BB M92 but not one that fires plastic BB's??

    • @mcdon2401
      @mcdon2401 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Under the relevant regulations, the .177 pistol is NOT classed as a RIF.
      Also, being on the UKARA database is not a licence. It's a way of proving your right to use the exemption contained within the VCRA to allow you to purchase airsoft RIFs.
      The UKARA database is not operated by the government. It's operated by the retailers and airsoft sites (the sites register their regular attendees as members of the site, allocate them a membership number, and upload their details to the database maintained by the retailers). This database is accessed by the retailers prior to them selling you anything, and is also accessible to Customs, allowing importation of RIFs legally from abroad.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Because Labour set out to criminalise decent, lawful activities and the Tories actually agree(!).
      The sad fact is most people when told how this works (or rather doesn't...) think the law is stupid, which it is.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @William Tell At the national level I'm not going to disagree with this. They've gone from being 'Conservatives' to being 'Tory' and they just don't seem to know when to stop digging.
      As someone with an interest in politics I can say there's been quite a few unreported major failings & national sellouts since they came to power, probably now far exceeding the damage which Blair did. But we only have ourselves to blame; AV was our last best chance to push the parties back into looking after *our* interests and yet people voted against it. 😒

  • @mumo9413
    @mumo9413 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Interested in your training course but, I have a certain amount of spine damage! It's us less physically capable or disabled who are actually more vulnerable! A self defence course for disabled/ physically challenged would be fantastic!

  • @kevinburt44
    @kevinburt44 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Also what happens when a criminal repaints a real gun in two tone blue or orange?

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      It's illegal so definitely, absolutely won't happen. Or at least that's the thinking behind the law. 🤦

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว

      @William Tell *"no crim is going to paint a gun to make it look like a toy."*
      *"A real gun made to look like a Nerf toy gun is making headlines all across the country. The Putnam sheriff says this is a bad game changer for anyone in law enforcement."*
      th-cam.com/video/sRU1hZIL-Tc/w-d-xo.html
      Also:
      th-cam.com/video/5qGwxCyZPr4/w-d-xo.html

    • @MHLivestreams
      @MHLivestreams ปีที่แล้ว

      American criminals have been doing that for years, make real ones look like toys.

  • @llamudos9809
    @llamudos9809 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You need a UKARA with any realistic Airsoft weapon. If you walk around with an imitation firearm you can end up in some real trouble. These are not toys, these airsoft weapons can blind you. They fire a BB at 335 to 400 ft/s and on full auto can cause severe pain at a range (80ft-100ft). Its normal to be bleeding on just a single shot never mind a RIF on full auto that can fire upto 60 rounds a second. If you use 40g BB you will be in a lot of pain. If you go GBB instead of electric and push the PSI up they are seriously powerful. Airsoft is excellent sport and most sites are well run. You learn a lot not just about rifle use but tactics, CQB and milsim play. Many ex soldiers usually end up playing or supporting the sport who provide amazing knowledge and support. Big up to ex squaddies who take the time to teach.

  • @pajownik
    @pajownik ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The legislation is dumb in its core. You can't legally buy a realistically looking airsoft gun. Basically a nice toy. But you can buy realistically looking BB gun, that is more powerful. How does that make any sense?

  • @woesmevrou5673
    @woesmevrou5673 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Held at gunpoint for 2 hours in my Jo’burg home 23 years ago. I was never quite sure if the “gun” was real - the crowbar and the monkey wrench certainly were threatening so I assumed the gun was dangerous.
    The lead detective who took my statement hours later could not help me when I asked what the next step might be - said he usually dealt with corpses. Perpetrators never arrested. Reconciled to fact that I will never know if that was a highly realistic firearm or the real thing. Also impossible to tell if it was loaded or not.

    • @Ellie-mc9wb
      @Ellie-mc9wb ปีที่แล้ว +10

      If it happened in Jo’burg you can guarantee it was a real firearm 😰😱

    • @Interdiction
      @Interdiction ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@Ellie-mc9wb Plenty of real handguns held by criminals in the UK

    • @NOT_SURE..
      @NOT_SURE.. ปีที่แล้ว +2

      sorry had to smile , i was reminded of the tim robbins film ,'nothing to lose' where they start arguing over who is the most threatening in the shop

    • @opless
      @opless ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Sounds like you were very lucky indeed, and why 'Stop' signs are seen as suggestions by car drivers who are joberg residents ;-)

    • @bobbyrayofthefamilysmith24
      @bobbyrayofthefamilysmith24 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That's the thing criminals don't need a gun to be real or loaded if it is. The threat alone will usually make people comply. Years ago a betting shop near me was robbed at "gunpoint" the "gun" was actually two metal tubes taped together to look like a double barrel shotgun.

  • @Suliiskk
    @Suliiskk ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Army cadets, with an X paras as a. Sargent, loved them days. Great show

  • @chrisblay
    @chrisblay ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Someone who was a regular at same pub as me and group of friends in the 1990's, was sent down for using an imitation firearm. When asked what he had done, the Pub landlord said he had held up a Pizza Hut with a banana concealed in a paper bag. Apparently they believed it was a real gun and he got caught. True story. 😳

    • @davidharris5736
      @davidharris5736 ปีที่แล้ว

      I heard that he?, or had he taken the banana out of the bag and in law it was still considered a fire arm as he had purported it to be one in the bag.

    • @Nickcooper625
      @Nickcooper625 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      No, that would be what the laws defines as a "supposed firearm," not an imitation.

    • @istandforfreedom1111
      @istandforfreedom1111 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Whoa. A potassium loaded narna 🍌 did he get a stuffed crust deep pan with bbq base and pineapple 🍍?

    • @jazzyjaytee9961
      @jazzyjaytee9961 ปีที่แล้ว

      reminds me of Monty Python. "How to defend yourself against a man armed with a banana".

    • @rather_be_a_cat
      @rather_be_a_cat ปีที่แล้ว

      Having your fingers inside your jacket in the shape of a gun is enough to be sentenced the same as if you used a firearm.

  • @Dr.Gunsmith
    @Dr.Gunsmith ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You can legally buy real firearm pistol and rifle bullet magazines in the uk without any license or questions asked. In the UK rifle magazines are not licensed parts so we do not need to see your license. In the UK only pressure bearing parts are licensed.

  • @carlh4747
    @carlh4747 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I take it the use of such airsoft realistic imitation firearms in a historic re-enactment or similar activity falls under the permitted event definition. It certainly sounds that way despite it not being a traditional skirmish

  • @1981tillett
    @1981tillett ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I am a big air soft player and I have all my guns in cases locked up maybe just a replica, but I treat them as a real weapon and make sure they’re locked up and put away even when they’ve been travelled to site

  • @newage3
    @newage3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    #blackbeltbarrister if you want to head down the rabbit hole like a run away freight train - Go in to - Printing a replacement 3D plastic part for a de-activated weapon (say sights, hand rest, magazine, top cover) or printing a replacement 3D part for your 2 tone none RIFA Airsotf gun...

    • @harrier331
      @harrier331 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      You seem to have a misunderstanding, all of those parts are completely unrestricted, you can buy any component of any firearm freely so long as it is not considered to be "pressure bearing" So, that usually means the barrel and bolt etc, those are restricted. You can 3d print or buy any other component and it is not a legal issue. In terms of deactivated guns, if they are deactivated to the current standards then the barrel will have been welded with a hardened steel plug and the firing pin will have been removed and the hole welded shut also, this effectively makes it an impossibility to reactivate. The amount of skill and effort involved in trying to reactivate would be pointless as at that rate you may as well make a new gun from scratch.

  • @HeliGav78
    @HeliGav78 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Waiting for the headline....police raid comic con and arrest master chief 😂

  • @Cdr_Mansfield_Cumming
    @Cdr_Mansfield_Cumming ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I have been called to several idiots with Airsoft replicas in public. One day, one of these people will turn their weapon towards a fellow AFO who will shoot, killing them. I fear it more than facing a real criminal or terrorist with a firearm. I have seen almost indistinguishable-looking automatic Airsoft “imitations” on more than one occasion.

  • @TheZXKUQYB
    @TheZXKUQYB ปีที่แล้ว +2

    BBB, you can always welcome to come to USA & I'll take you to range for a little fun.

  • @lezbriddon
    @lezbriddon ปีที่แล้ว +3

    and this is why the two sticks of dynamite alarm clock (looney toons style) was dropped by argos. its a sad sad world

  • @blackheart7886
    @blackheart7886 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm all for people to not be allowed real firearms but to not be allowed to have fully automatic BB guns that aren't air-soft for backyard plinking is absolutely pathetic.

    • @Bruce4lmighty
      @Bruce4lmighty ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Totally agree. It’s a joke 👍🏻

    • @bod121
      @bod121 ปีที่แล้ว

      @daibhidhSCO due to the Hugh level of depression and anxiety in people today and the ' I've had enough of life and I'm taking people with me attitude' guns do need to be controlled. Being allowed 50 cal sniper rifles and automatic weapons is a danger . It takes a second to trigger people these days, and then they want vengeance.

  • @flisswhitmore6691
    @flisswhitmore6691 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    My brother was arrested in August on his way to an Airsoft game. His guns where 2tone and they was treating him like a terrorist the entire time. 5:03 4 different armed police officer's and at least 6 regular police (according to him after conversing with officers pre-arrest at least 3 did Airsoft themselves, with one being an officer he recognised 3 days before after being intercepted on his way home from a game) all came to the conclusion that his guns where dangerous in some way that he had to be arrested. Dispite both guns being 2tone and so obviously plastic.

    • @DrAbdulWahidMohammad
      @DrAbdulWahidMohammad ปีที่แล้ว

      So what happened after this ?

    • @flisswhitmore6691
      @flisswhitmore6691 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@DrAbdulWahidMohammad they offered to drop the charges if he let them destroy his pistol 2 days before he went on trial

  • @cedhome7945
    @cedhome7945 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The bright colours described are a joke as lots of real firearms for sale in countries where ownership is legal are sold with the option of what ever colours you want ! Black has long been not the only option available

  • @TehSuperWaffle3000
    @TehSuperWaffle3000 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Airsoft is the most fun money pit I've ever spent grands on (you dont have to go that far tho). I highly recommend it its fun for all the family. The laws are pretty strange in the uk and I wish it was more popular here.

    • @c4four132
      @c4four132 ปีที่แล้ว

      you should get into real guns instead, much more fun and they hold value better

    • @TehSuperWaffle3000
      @TehSuperWaffle3000 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@c4four132 it's the uk, the laws are shit and its very expensive plus you need connections to pass the license faster, also you need a very solid defence. Self defence is not a defence. Also I'm brown.

    • @c4four132
      @c4four132 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@TehSuperWaffle3000 you don't need any defence for shotgun certificate, it isn't that hard for firearms either you just need club membership for 6 months and also antiques dont require any licence. You are wrong about needing connections and also the fact you are foreign will not get your application denied although some of the licencing teams may be a bit more investigative of you. Not likely to happen, though, as most police forces seem to spend most of their time fighting online racism these days, so I doubt they would discriminate.

    • @TehSuperWaffle3000
      @TehSuperWaffle3000 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@c4four132 yeah I don't really want a shotgun tho, being into guns I already know what I want. I need me a 22. Semi auto rifle. That'd be nice.

    • @TehSuperWaffle3000
      @TehSuperWaffle3000 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@c4four132 also its just a huge ballache especially for a busy n broke uni student. I've had some shit interactions with the police profiling me so my trust in them is very low. Maybe when I'm 40 and rich I'll reconsider.

  • @RekzysTheTitan
    @RekzysTheTitan ปีที่แล้ว +1

    my local armed response team have a note saying "This address is home to an airsofter" because about 3 or 4 times paramedics reported me to the police for having "guns".

  • @TachyonDriver
    @TachyonDriver ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Airsoft, which I discovered prior to the VCRA act 2006 (had a chat with my MP when it was possibly going to be a blanket ban), is the reason I legally own several RIFs.. semi auto handguns, a shotgun, several assault rifles including a couple of the AK variety, and a belt fed machine gun (M60). Of course, if I was to ever misbehave with any of them I'd be looking at a 5 year prison term at best, or shot dead by armed responseat worst.. AND RIGHTLY SO. It would be my fault to place the officer in a shooting situation, no come back on them imho..

  • @Ultimate-Deadpool
    @Ultimate-Deadpool ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Airsoft is stricter than airgun replicas in UK crazy really

    • @ukpracticalshootingamateur
      @ukpracticalshootingamateur ปีที่แล้ว

      Yep, you need the licence for airsoft, but over 18 can walk into any sports shooting shop and walk out with a very real looking Sig Sauer MPX powered by Co2 shooting .177 lead pellets for £300!

    • @Ultimate-Deadpool
      @Ultimate-Deadpool ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ukpracticalshootingamateur or just buy a lethal legal crossbow, UK laws are dumb as I know

  • @paulmanley-cooke3237
    @paulmanley-cooke3237 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Can you make one that covers black powder cap and ball please

    • @IPADGETT
      @IPADGETT ปีที่แล้ว +2

      smoothbaore muskets are SGC, rifles/pistols are FAC

    • @marfu_lee
      @marfu_lee ปีที่แล้ว +4

      ​​@@IPADGETT unless it's an original antique and you don't shoot it

  • @photoplanet
    @photoplanet ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Being a former FAC holder and pistol shooter, I would quite like an airsoft pistol for some casual target shooting... According to the legislation, the only legal way I can obtain a 'realistic' all-black handgun (eg. Glock) is to obtain a 'defence' such as spending a minimum of 3 sessions at a recognised airsoft skirmish site.
    So, in order to demonstrate that I'm not going to use my new toy to go around shooting people, I first have to play 'dress up' and run around shooting people...
    Anyone else see the irony in this ?

  • @andrewyorke3352
    @andrewyorke3352 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love airsoft really good fun if your a good sport and take your hits great vid 👍🇬🇧

  • @RPLAsmodeus
    @RPLAsmodeus ปีที่แล้ว +5

    so what would you advise your friend do in the hypothetical situation that they purchased a replica 30 odd years ago when they were legal and they still own said replica?

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Legal to own, unlawful to sell _unless_ buyer comes under an exemption, e.g. UKARA registered.
      There's a couple of Airsoft forums where you can make a private sale.

  • @OldFirmEngland
    @OldFirmEngland 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    SBS ..respect ....great podcast sir 👍

  • @loc4725
    @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    15 minutes was a *very* short video to talk about the mess that is UK firearms legislation. For example, I have several realistic airguns; as airguns they are not banned but if they shot the much safer Airsoft BB's (which are intended to be used in 'skirmishes' against other humans) they essentially would be! Less powerful = more tightly controlled. 🤦
    It was Labour's Hazel Blears who tried really, really hard to ban airsoft. Fortunately a big campaign to prevent that *only just* managed to get the temporary exception which you are able to use.

  • @chrisgosling6083
    @chrisgosling6083 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    RE the colour google " block 19 " i know this is an exception but an interesting one

  • @antreb15
    @antreb15 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Waiting in anticipation of legally owned handguns that require no licence, ie, weapons of age, how old does a gun have to be to not require licencing.

    • @armchairgeneralissimo
      @armchairgeneralissimo ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Nick-zp3ub The rules for antique firearms are the gun must have been built before 1st September 1939 and the calibre it is chambered for is on the obsolete calibre list.

  • @rogerborg
    @rogerborg ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks, that's a solid overview, although case law is king. On that, while brandishing with intent is indeed an offence, I think it's vital to emphasise that under Fireams Act 1968, section 19, so is simple public possession of any imitation (realistic or otherwise), without a reasonable excuse. The bar isn't high, but see Scott Park in 2013, convicted for possession of an (undersized) bright orange springer pistol. The Sheriff had to convict, even while calling it "a major public policy issue". I'm careful to always keep booking or site details to hand when on the way to or from a game day.

  • @arranrobertson461
    @arranrobertson461 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I am in very deep water with this, I purchased an "imitation firearm" assuming it was just the run of the mill airsoft items we have available here as I got it from a local highstreet in the UK,my intention was to do airsoft with my bro as we are getting older and running out of things to do together, we play cod but in my mind a physical outing airsoft is what we need,I have took it out 1 day and showed somebody,but b4 doing so made it clear it was airsoft with 2police officers 4-6 feet away. Thought nothing of it u till about 10 armed police had lasers pointed at me with unclear instructions. Now going jail I think. (was the first illegal act the shop)?

  • @bobg3633
    @bobg3633 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    There should be zero legislation on fire arms.
    A man should be allowed to have fire arms for protection.

  • @jpswaddle7899
    @jpswaddle7899 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My mother could not tell the difference between a blue BB gun and a 9mm pistol. How many British people have ever seen a real gun let alone held one. To class something as realistic would that not assume they have some prior knowledge to judge something realistic?

  • @ryanlaffan1397
    @ryanlaffan1397 ปีที่แล้ว

    I L.A.R.P in the Uk and one of my friends funniest stories is going down the motorway and stopping at one of the large motor way stops towards london.
    After small Starbucks trip he returned to his car and his (Imitation firearm) (Painted nerf gun) had 4 police officers staring through his car windows at it.
    They were not happy someone had given a tip off that he had a gun.

  • @TheSkunkyMonk
    @TheSkunkyMonk ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Archery practice, outdoors, public land, quiet, safe and secluded areas without being part of a club, almost zero risk to public? Am I allowed its hard to find any clear advice.

    • @pambowden947
      @pambowden947 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      not on public land thats a big no no. join a club or get permission on private land

    • @TheSkunkyMonk
      @TheSkunkyMonk ปีที่แล้ว

      @@pambowden947 Wasn't after your opinion just actual facts. so some law please if your going to claim I can't practice with a bow on public land in a safe manner.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@TheSkunkyMonk Look up the legislation regarding offensive weapons.

    • @TheSkunkyMonk
      @TheSkunkyMonk ปีที่แล้ว

      @@loc4725 A bow is not an offensive weapon.

    • @loc4725
      @loc4725 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@TheSkunkyMonk *"Archery practice, outdoors, public land"*
      Criminal Justice Act (offensive weapons) section 139:
      "Possession of an article with blade or point in a public place: (Either way, maximum term of 4 years imprisonment on indictment)
      This section applies to any article which has a blade or is sharply pointed except a folding pocketknife, unless the blade of the folding pocketknife exceeds 3 inches (7.62cm). "
      I'm not a lawyer but that looks like it's covered.

  • @JP50Cal_Airsoft
    @JP50Cal_Airsoft ปีที่แล้ว

    Love that you’ve covered this.

  • @Pigdogmeat
    @Pigdogmeat ปีที่แล้ว

    I would recommend doing a video about Airbows. Although not licensed and legal to buy here. Someone was convicted for having one as the Jury considered it a firearm , contrary to legislation...

  • @nortonkelly8460
    @nortonkelly8460 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    lol It's not fair, I bet your SAS buddy could take on an army in airsoft all by himself, it looks like great fun I've never done it myself but I'd love to

    • @dantae666
      @dantae666 ปีที่แล้ว

      try a game it is very good fun and both similar but different to paintball

  • @PaulTurley81
    @PaulTurley81 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    i play airsoft as often as i can with my team

  • @MarkColemanRules
    @MarkColemanRules ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Can't wait for BBB's take on 3D printed weapons.

  • @pelletonpellet
    @pelletonpellet ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Please do a video on 'Airguns' i.e .177 and .22 pellet and steel BB firing weapons. Weirdly, although more powerful than Airsoft guns these CAN be black and imitate firearms with NO license or UKARA required...you just have to be over 18 to purchase.

  • @DarkstarPyro
    @DarkstarPyro 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I have two ‘defences’ to posses RIFs (film/TV work and membership of UKASA (10m PLI). I’ve imported a RIF from Hong Kong - but Border Force are refusing to release (have also added Military Vehicle Trust membership (also incudes 10M PLI). They are demanding evidence of: Film scripts, Airsoft games played and re-enactments and role! This is NOT a requirement under VCRA! Would like to hear your view on the legality of their action.

  • @SunspotGallery
    @SunspotGallery 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I would love to own something like a 1911, or a beretta replica as an ornament. I totally understand the need for them to be distinguishable, but, ugh. Some just look really nice!

  • @stevesmith7530
    @stevesmith7530 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yet many genuine firearms are available in the specified colours. Thanks to my background I would treat the sight of a bright pink handgun exactly the same no matter what it may turn out to be in reality.
    Another flaw in the law, it is easier to buy a "RIF", that is actually a firearm under law, with far greater energy than it is to buy an "airsoft" replica. It can even be cheaper too.

    • @stevesmith7530
      @stevesmith7530 ปีที่แล้ว

      @William Tell That's the thing with firearms legislation, it covers some odd stuff like "defence sprays" or even certain shooting accessories. It also covers airguns. Shotguns are not firearms, despite explosive propellant, but a separately defined category.
      The legal definition and dictionary definition of firearm are not necessarily the same all the time. That applies to many other words too. e.g. Roads legislation also covers "Locomotives" which one would normally think of as being confined to rails. Words can be tricky in law, it is why I said "firearm under law" rather than firearm.
      "The Firearms Act 1968 defines firearms generally but also creates a number of sub-categories of firearm, namely shot guns, air weapons and prohibited weapons." [CPS]

    • @stevesmith7530
      @stevesmith7530 ปีที่แล้ว

      @William Tell and, as stated, I can go to my local gunshop, buy an exact visial replica of say a glock 17, that comes under that legislation, with just my drivers licence, no club membership, that has far higher muzzle energy than a brightly coloured sold to almost anyone airsoft gun. And given the prices of some airsoft guns, a fair bit cheaper too probably.
      Unless the rules have changed, I can also get myself certain .22 rifles too without any licence.
      So, realistic in appearance including colour, 4-6 times the energy, double that for a rifle, metal shot that can deform to create maximum damage, and no membership or background checks required.
      Kneejerk legislation as far as airsoft goes, rather ridiculous when examined even lightly.

  • @preacher009
    @preacher009 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you.this answer my question from a few days ago..I love the air soft sport..

  • @DavidFraser007
    @DavidFraser007 ปีที่แล้ว

    Looks like fun, but I'm too old (64) for that now and I did enough running around with rifles in the army.

  • @petersmith6974
    @petersmith6974 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just bought a Russian Makarov replica 4.5mm bb air pistol.
    It looks like the real deal.From a gunshop.

  • @Darkroome
    @Darkroome ปีที่แล้ว

    Loved that content, BBB, especially cos I play airsoft games at the weekends anyway, it just confirmed my knowledge of the law 👍 spot on mate

  • @thundercatsaga6136
    @thundercatsaga6136 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Lol love your channel even more now as an avid airsoft fan 😂

  • @oneeleven9832
    @oneeleven9832 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I live in a town of 6000 people…saw 2 policemen today was going to ask em if they were lost, first time I’ve seen any in probably 3 years

  • @chrisd5774
    @chrisd5774 ปีที่แล้ว

    So, imagine if you will this hypothetical scenario: a person has fully realistic airsoft guns bought 20 years ago, well before this legislation, and just has them in their home, and occasionally shoots them indoors and runs dry fire drills, is that person in danger of prosecution if "found out"..

  • @davidc8527
    @davidc8527 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Did not the UK have similiar issues as for defending ones self with a firearm...the history of firearms in the US and the UK are similiar in history I believe am I correct...great video a good look at what can or may happen here the US or elsewhere.

  • @delbertstringbreaker7686
    @delbertstringbreaker7686 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    It is typical that the official mind thinks up a list of 'Unrealistic' colours that in fact appear on genuine lethal firearms which are specially made that way to appeal to women in the USA!

    • @ukpracticalshootingamateur
      @ukpracticalshootingamateur ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Correct, you can accessorize many parts of live fire AR platform rifles in bright anodized finishes!

    • @ptonpc
      @ptonpc ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It's UK legislation. Guns are not so common here. Remember this is also talking about *Realistic Imitation* firearms. There is different legislation dealing with the real thing.

    • @delbertstringbreaker7686
      @delbertstringbreaker7686 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ptonpc I suggest you peruse the Umarex BB and CO2 range of pistols - all more powerful that airsoft - very realistic - and devoid of silly colours and available in the UK.

    • @ptonpc
      @ptonpc ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ​@@delbertstringbreaker7686 This might come off as more bitchy than intended (Late here and I'm sleepy)
      I have no particular interest in buying pistols. I was merely pointing out that you are comparing colours used in the USA to appeal to a certain demographic, with the colours used in another country to signify something else. Then implying this is a silly mistake on the part of the people who chose those colours.
      Sure, those colours may appeal to women gun owners in the USA but that does not matter here since the UK is not part of the USA, we do not have a gun culture like the USA and firearms are harder to get hold of.
      You can thank incidents like Dunblane etc for that if you like.

  • @Earth.VS.Humans
    @Earth.VS.Humans 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    So i cant just buy deactivated guns? I want to order a PKK, and a box of inert .32 ACP rounds. I read that its illegal to sell defectively deactivated guns, so it cant dry fire or cock or anything? Does that mean i can buy one that doesnt do any of these things and is completely welded?

  • @MisterB88
    @MisterB88 ปีที่แล้ว

    Brilliant video, looking forward to more!

  • @StraightOuttaUrbex
    @StraightOuttaUrbex ปีที่แล้ว +1

    but if you have a ukara number you can buy a imnitation firearm for air soft

    • @StraightOuttaUrbex
      @StraightOuttaUrbex ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @William Tell i bought my rif without a ukara i used my driving license and got sold a non two tone rif all the ukara does is allow you to buy online pretty much there is certainly no defence using ukara as a excuse to have a firearm in public thats a offence in itself and there is no defence on that thats why you always have to use gun cases even for a rif

  • @jebustank
    @jebustank ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You should see if you can get youtuber Kicking Mustang along too, he is one of the UK's best airsoft players.

  • @brhbrh5572
    @brhbrh5572 ปีที่แล้ว

    What is the "opt-in url" to sign up for the 'training opportunity' info? The 'Sign-up' button doesn't appear to function.

  • @01Joemama
    @01Joemama ปีที่แล้ว +1

    i have bought several RIF's over the last ten years (solely for air soft) even full metal but i can tell you 90% of modern day RIF's cant be converted as none of the internal diameters and layout dont allow to a real breach and firing mech to fit. Polarm Academy looks sick wish my dodgy knees would allow me to do things like that, got the drive and determination my mind loves it but my nicknak knee's wont hahaha

    • @TheJase8566
      @TheJase8566 ปีที่แล้ว

      Anyone trying to convert the standard RIF into something that fires real bullets clearly doesn't like having all their fingers. Its toy plastic not ballistic rated plastic, that thing is gonna explode at some stage!

  • @jonomoth2581
    @jonomoth2581 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    would it be legal for an under 18 to manufacture a device that looks a little like a fire arm (same basic shape as a hand gun, brightly coloured) and uses strong elastic bands to store energy (similar to a crossbow) and shoot 12mm steel balls above the kinetic energy limit

  • @Kralkuscov
    @Kralkuscov ปีที่แล้ว

    My only problem with the laws on RIFS in this country is I can legally go out and buy the following without proof of licensing just proof I'm 18 years old or older..
    Blank firing guns of design of 1870 or prior with some exceptions, two tone blank firing modern pistols, revolvers, submachineguns and rifles, Replica firearms of a period prior of 1870 with again some exceptions, Air rifles and Air pistols under a certain energy output (They are almost all the time in an imitation color format), Marker Shotguns, and pistols (Paintball home defense airguns fixed to shoot rubber or metal balls but can also fire standard paint balls, also in imitation color) Crossbows and Compound bows (Even tho they ain't RIFS still worth mentioning)
    I think the last one to mention are EU and UK Spec Deactivated firearms of any period with magazines and deactivated ammunitions including casings and projectiles.
    Additionally you can buy Airsoft and BBguns in two tone and either change the colored parts for black parts which can be sold separately without licensing, painting them of a realistic nature or even exchanging some real firearm furniture to replace the colored options which on some airsoft guns they do work.
    HOWEVER
    It is illegal to purchase the following without licensing or reasonable defense..
    Airsoft guns in imitation color, realistic Blank firing weapons post 1870 to present day, Replica firearms post 1870 to present day and some airguns and pistols over a certain energy output
    I would've mentioned firearms and shotguns but it wasn't what I was going for but yeah this doesn't make sense to me whatsoever.

  • @legomovieman2
    @legomovieman2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Ayyy nice to see someone tackle this properly on TH-cam, was hoping to do something myself as I had to go through all the legislation and guidance a bit ago building some of my Firearm Guides for the UK. To be honest though as a Firearms enthusiast I can't wait to leave the UK.

  • @James-gr5rz
    @James-gr5rz ปีที่แล้ว

    Not sure if I knew about joules in 1970 when I was 5…. Spudgun and caps….